How Do India’s Women Peacekeepers Inspire Change in Conflict Zones?
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Indian women peacekeepers inspire women in conflict zones.
- They build trust and hope in vulnerable communities.
- Addressing gender-based violence is a critical focus.
- India's legacy includes the first all-women police unit in the UN.
- Women-led initiatives have transformed society at the grassroots.
United Nations, Oct 28 (NationPress) India’s women peacekeepers serve as a beacon of inspiration for women in conflict zones, significantly enhancing civilian safety, as noted by the UN Peacebuilding Commission.
According to P. Wilson, Indian women peacekeepers, trailblazers in UN mission deployments, demonstrate that women can be leaders and peacebuilders in challenging environments. They foster trust within communities and instill hope among vulnerable populations, especially women and children.
Wilson emphasized their crucial role in tackling gender-based violence and ensuring that peace efforts consider the needs and viewpoints of all community members.
Opening his address with the Tamil greeting “Vanakam” and concluding with “Nanri” (Thank you), Wilson is part of the delegation attending the General Assembly.
This meeting commemorated the 25th anniversary of a pivotal Security Council resolution advocating for women's roles in UN missions, encouraging their involvement in peace talks, and protecting them from violence.
Even before this resolution, Indian women medical officers were active in the peacekeeping mission in Congo during the 1960s, Wilson highlighted.
He stated that India’s peacekeeping legacy is distinctive for recognizing women as essential agents of sustainable peace.
The first all-female police unit deployed by the UN originated from India in 2007, sent to Liberia, which motivated local women to pursue careers in their national police and security forces.
The Centre for United Nations Peacekeeping in New Delhi stands out as a global hub for gender-sensitive training, offering courses for women peacekeepers.
Earlier this year, India organized the inaugural International Conference for Women Peacekeepers from the Global South.
At the national level, Wilson pointed out that women-led initiatives have transformed society, with over 1.4 million women holding elected positions at the grassroots level.